Devices for use with systems and methods for authentication of collectable objects

ABSTRACT

Provided is a system and method for authentication of collectable objects. A hi-resolution digital camera in communication with a nonvolatile data storage device having a data partition capable of being made immutable is provided. The nonvolatile data storage device is compatible with a computerized device, and the hi-resolution digital camera is operated to record at least one hi-resolution digital image of at least one unique appearance characteristic of a collectable object at an image resolution of at least 300 pixel dots per inch at 1:1 image scale. The at least one hi-resolution digital image is stored in the data partition of the nonvolatile data storage device, together with additional image data. A tamper-resistant marking associated with the collectable object is placed on the nonvolatile data storage device

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority from co-pending U.S. Non-provisionalpatent application Ser. No. 16/237,446 filed December, 2018, by James J.Macor titled “System and Method for Authentication of CollectableObjects,” which is a continuation-in-part and claims priority from U.S.Non-provisional patent application Ser. No. 12/928,280 filed on Dec. 8,2010, by James J. Macor titled “Associative Data Storage Device forAuthentication of Collectable Objects,” which is a continuation-in-partof and claims priority from the following US Patent Applications: all ofwhich have been filed by the inventor herein: U.S. application Ser. No.12/924,170, filed on Sep. 22, 2010, entitled “Protection,authentication, identification device for a physical object specimen,”U.S. application Ser. No. 12/156,186, filed on May 30, 2008, entitled“Authentication and identification device for a collectable object,”U.S. application Ser. No. 12/072,618 (ABN), Feb. 27, 2008 Protection andauthentication device for a collectable object,” U.S. application Ser.No. 11/710,378, Feb. 23, 2007, entitled “Protection and authenticationdevice for trading collectable objects,” U.S. application Ser. No.11/891,407, filed Aug. 10, 2007, entitled “Collectable display panel anddata storage device,” U.S. application Ser. No. 11/513,004, filed Aug.30, 2006, entitled “Associative data storage system for collectableobjects,” U.S. application Ser. No. 11/493,312, filed on Jul. 26, 2006,entitled “Protection, authentication, identification device for acollectable object,” all of which are incorporated herein by referencein their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention presents devices for use with systems and methods forauthentication of collectable objects.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Small collectable objects such as coins, stamps, sports cards, etc. havebeen preserved, collected and traded by individuals for as long ascollectable objects have existed. Larger collectable objects, such asweapons, vehicles, some sports memorabilia, and the like, are alsopreserved, collected and traded. Collectable objects, such as coins,have further benefited more recently from grading and certificationservice organizations that certify a collectable and place thecollectable in a tamper resistant holder for protection, preservationand authentication.

Professional collectables certification organizations, such as theProfessional Coin Grading Service (PCGS) authenticate, identify, andcertify authenticity of collectable objects using certain uniquedetailed appearance characteristics, which vary from object to object.It is an important objective of the present invention that it mayprovide visual identification and authentication of a collectable objectby providing a means for easily accessing and comparing detailed digitalimage/s of the unique appearance characteristics of a collectableobject. Such unique appearance characteristics of a collectable coin mayinclude, for example, strike, luster, reflectance, color, defects,abrasions, centering, reeding characteristics (edge characteristics),die-varieties, toning, etc. The present invention provides a more robustauthentication device for certified collectables, a symbioticenhancement to professional certification services organizations, andwould help deter a growing problem of counterfeit of collectables in themarketplace.

It is another an important objective of the present invention that itprovides for a collector to store the actual collectable object in aholder for preservation, and also use (in combination) an “associative”data storage device that may be either attached to or “detached” fromthe collectable object, and being connectable and operational in aeither condition from the collectable object, and with only the need ofa standard computer or in combination with a linked database. The datastorage device is configured to record and store at least one immutabledigital picture image of at least one unique appearance characteristicof the collectable object for authentication and identification of thecollectable object. There are many benefits provided by the presentinvention device by the embodiment of having a “detached” data storagedevice that stores detailed digital images of the unique appearancecharacteristics of the collectable object, and other possible data, suchas historical information, in a detached condition from the collectable.For instance, a collector may store a valuable coin in a bank safetydeposit box, for enhanced security and protected storage. Theassociative data storage device (with associative visual markings of thesame collectable) serves as a “detached authentication record of thatcollectable.” As such, the device may be utilized by a collector(anytime and anywhere) to view detailed authentication picture image/sof the collectable with only the need for a standard computer, such as alaptop computer. The authentication and identification image record/sprovide important benefits, for instance, the associative data storagedevice may be used for insurance verification, records documentation,and authentication certification should the collector or user decide tosell the collectable.

It is yet another important objective of the present invention that anyimages and data can be viewed by means of a standard computer, withoutthe need of costly extraneous equipment (e.g., RFID readers andscanners). As such, the present invention teaches a low-cost inventiondevice that eliminates the need for costly extraneous devices,transmitters, readers, scanners, equipment, etc. The present inventiondevice is designed and structured to operate as a low-cost, easy to usedevice for a common collector, and with only the need for a standardcomputer.

It is yet another important objective of the present invention toinclude a security protocol that resists unscrupulous “tracking” of thecollectable object by the device itself, such as at a convention show,to provide added security to the owner of the collectable object.

It is yet another important objective of the present invention that thedata storage device, such as a flash memory device, is a “non-volatile”type data storage device (being well known in the industry as withoutthe need for an on-board battery or power source). As the data storagedevice and authentication record of the unique appearancecharacteristics of the collectable may be stored for many years, it isan objective of the present that it may be stored without concern ofreplacing a battery, or the potential adverse effects that may occur,over time, by any adverse chemical reactions that may occur as theresult of any attached battery powered component.

It is yet another important objective of the present invention toprovide for a long-term digital record of digital picture images of theunique appearance characteristics related to the collectable such as arare coin. This is accomplished by configuring the data storage deviceto have an immutable condition (resistant to change or alteration) atleast in part, or as a whole. As such, the data storage device may beconfigured in part (a configured electronic partition) with aRead-Only-Memory (ROM), or as a whole, such as a Write-Once-Read-Many(WORM) device that is configured during the write cycle.

In preferred embodiments, it is yet another important objective of thepresent invention that digital picture image records of the uniqueappearance characteristics of the collectable object can be viewed by astandard computer, and with or without the need for online-Internetoperability. At the first level of object authentication of the presentinvention, the collectable object can be verified by simply comparingimage/s of the unique appearance characteristics stored on thenon-volatile data device and the object itself to determineauthenticity. In addition to increased cost for Internet service, attimes, depending on equipment, service, and location, Internet onlineoperability may not be available or reliable. Remote storage of digitaldata or images, are potentially susceptible to all kinds of adverseconditions, malfunctions, and failures that are not “controllable” bythe owner of the stored data. Unlike the present invention, remotelystored data and any images, e.g., stored on a host computer or remoteserver, are susceptible to, for example, software and hardware failures,software viruses, theft, alterations of data or images,telecommunications failure (even temporarily), equipment failures, powerfailures (even temporarily), environmental calamities (floods and fire),business failures (website closures) (e.g., bankruptcies). Such examplesof remote database failures are certainly plausible over time, are notcontrollable by the owner of the collectable object in hand, and couldcreate an “interim or permanent failure” for the user to view any data,records, or images at all. The present invention provides the aforesaiddeficiencies by providing long-term authentication of the collectableobject, such as a rare coin because authentication is contained withinthe device itself, and a secondary authentication via remote storage ofthe authentication utilizing hi-resolution data or images.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A device for use with a collectable authentication system and method ispresented. In an aspect of the invention, the system and method includesa hi-resolution digital camera in communication with a nonvolatile datastorage device having a data partition capable of being made immutable.The nonvolatile data storage device is compatible with a computerizeddevice, and the hi-resolution digital camera operated to record at leastone hi-resolution digital image of at least one unique appearancecharacteristic of a collectable object at an image resolution of atleast 300 pixel dots per inch at 1:1 image scale. The hi-resolutiondigital image is then stored in the data partition of the nonvolatiledata storage device, together with additional image data. Additionalimage data may include, but is not limited to: historical informationregarding the collectable object, ownership history of the collectableobject, a hyperlink for accessing further online information regardingthe collectable object, one or more encryption keys for accessingnon-public data regarding or related to the collectable object, or thelike, without limitation.

Another aspect of the invention also includes a tamper-resistant markingassociated with the collectable object placed on the nonvolatile datastorage device. The marking may include an image of the collectableobject or another image that allows a user to recall the collectableobject, or a bar code useful for encoding a serial number or otherinformation reminiscent of the collectable object, or even a word orcode associated with the collectable object, or the like, withoutlimitation.

In another aspect of the invention, the data partition of thenonvolatile data storage device being rendered immutable. By“immutable,” it is intended that the actual “write” circuit on thenonvolatile data storage be physically disabled for the data partition,not merely that the partition is marked “read only.”

In a further aspect of the invention, a computer system comprising datastorage configured to operate a database is provided. The computersystem is in operative communication with the hi-resolution camera, andthe database stores the at least one hi-resolution digital image andadditional image data. In an aspect of the invention, the additionalimage data comprises a secure electronic hyperlink that provides accessto the database.

Another aspect of the invention provides a collectable objectauthentication system method including a nonvolatile data storage devicehaving an immutable data partition compatible with a computerizeddevice. The nonvolatile storage device is preconfigured with at leastone hi-resolution digital image of at least one unique appearancecharacteristic of a collectable object at an image resolution of atleast 300 pixel dots per inch at 1:1 image scale together withadditional image data. The at least one hi-resolution image on thenon-volatile storage device is compared with a collectable object. Ifthe at least one hi-resolution image and the object match, then theobject is determined to be authentic. Otherwise, if the at least onehi-resolution image and the object do not match, then the object isdetermined to not be authentic.

In a further aspect of the invention, a hi-resolution digital camera inoperative communication with the computerized device is operated torecord at least one hi-resolution current image of the collectableobject, which is then compared with the at least one hi-resolution imagefrom the nonvolatile data storage device. In an aspect of the invention,the comparison is performed automatically by the computerized device,the computerized device preconfigured to perform the comparison.

In another aspect of the invention, the computerized device is incommunication with a database preconfigured with the at least onehi-resolution digital image and additional image data. The additionaldata on the nonvolatile data storage device includes an access key toallow access to the database and at least one digital image. The atleast one hi-resolution image from the database is then compared withthe at least one hi-resolution current image of the collectable object.

In an aspect of the invention, the non-volatile data storage is asolid-state flash memory data storage device.

In another aspect of the invention, the unique appearance characteristicis an identification marking associated with the collectable object.

In an aspect of the invention, the identification marking is on a holderfor the collectable object. The collectable object may be sealed in theholder or removable.

In one embodiment of the present invention, a system and method forauthentication of collectable objects is described. A non-volatileelectronic data storage device is used in combination with at least onecollectable object. The non-volatile electronic data storage device isdetached from the collectable object and electronically configured tostore at least one immutable digital image of at least one uniqueappearance characteristic of the collectable object, such as a coin. Thedata storage device is provided with tamper resistant visual markingsthat are associative with visual markings of the collectable object soas to provide association of the data storage device with thecollectable object. The non-volatile electronic data storage device iscompatible with a standard computer system for a user to view one ormore digital images of the unique appearance characteristics of thecollectable object for authentication and identification of thecollectable object. In preferred embodiments, the non-volatile datastorage device is a solid-state Flash Memory type data storage device.The collectable object may have more than one characteristic associatedwith the collectable object, and the non-volatile electronic datastorage device may include data of more than one characteristic of thecollectable object.

In another device embodiment of the present invention, the device is aprotection, authentication, identification device is for a coin. Aholder formed for assembly with said coin to provide protection andpreservation of said coin, said holder housing further being formed soas to be nondetachably secured to the coin to resist disassembly andseparation with the coin.

An electronic data storage device containing at least one predeterminedexternal database link to an external database comprising at least onedigital image of at least one unique appearance characteristic of thecoin is selected from the group including strike, luster, defects, andabrasions for authentication identification of the digital image withthe coin. The electronic data storage device is detached from the coinitself, but nondetachably secured to a holder housing that stores thecoin and the electronic data storage.

The electronic data storage is configured to store at least one digitalimage of the coin, and at least one digital image including sufficientdetail to record at least one unique characteristic of the appearance ofsaid coin; wherein the electronic data storage device is a solid-stateflash memory storage device configured and having sufficient storagecapacity to record unique characteristics of the appearance of the coin,and at least one digital image is readable and displayable by a standardcomputer system connectable to the electronic storage system.

The non-volatile electronic data storage device includes tamperresistant visual markings associative with a collectable object. Aholder may be used to store the collectable object. The data storagedevice includes tamper resistant visual markings associative with thecollectable object that are also associative with tamper resistantvisual markings of a holder that houses the collectable object. Thetamper resistant markings of the holder are associative with at leastone corresponding tamper resistant visual marking of the non-volatileelectronic data storage device, and may be or include a correspondingbarcode.

In some embodiments, the non-volatile electronic data storage device maybe detachably stored in a container having a formed cavity fitted forthe data storage device, and, the collectable object is also detachablystored in the same container having a formed cavity fitted for storingthe collectable object.

The non-volatile electronic data storage device may further comprisedigital picture images of historical objects or persons related to thecollectable object. In some embodiments, the non-volatile electronicdata storage device may further comprise at least one immutableelectronic link that fetches a predetermined remote database that storesinformation related to the collectable object. For security reasons, theelectronic link may be encrypted.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a right front perspective view of a present inventiondevice shown disassembled.

FIG. 2 shows a top assembled view of a present invention device similarto that shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 shows a rear plan view of the present invention device shown inFIG. 2.

FIG. 4 shows a rear plan view of a present invention device similar tothat shown in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows a right front perspective view of another embodiment of thepresent invention device shown disassembled.

FIG. 6 shows an assembled right front perspective view of the presentinvention device shown in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 shows an assembled top view of another embodiment of a presentinvention device.

FIG. 8 shows a diagram of a present invention device that is similar tothat shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, and a typical corresponding interfacewith a standard computer system with Internet capability.

FIG. 9 shows a diagram of a present invention device similar to thatshown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, and a typical corresponding interface with astandard computer system with Internet capability.

FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a present invention device similar to thatshown in FIG. 7, and a typical corresponding interface with a standardcomputer system with Internet capability.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following description, for purposes of explanation, specificnumbers, materials and configurations are set forth in order to providea thorough understanding of the invention. It will be apparent, however,to one having ordinary skill in the art, that the invention may bepracticed without these specific details. In some instances, well-knownfeatures may be omitted or simplified so as not to obscure the presentinvention. Furthermore, reference in the specification to “oneembodiment” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature,structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodimentis included in at least one embodiment of the invention. The appearancesof the phrase “in an embodiment” in various places in the specificationare not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.

Referring now to the drawings which are for the purpose of illustratingpreferred embodiments of the present invention and are not for thepurpose of limiting same, FIG. 1 shows a right front perspective,exploded view of a present invention device shown disassembled. Aprotection, authentication, identification device for a collectableobject 1, is shown comprising a collectible holder having an upperhousing 3 and a lower housing 23 that are formed for assembly with acollectable object, such as coin 11. Other collectable objects such asstamps, currency, baseball cards, etc., are additional examples ofcollectable objects that may be applicable to the present invention. Theholder housings 3 and 23 may be made of a clear plastic, such asacrylic, to provide protection and viewing for a collectable object,such as coin 11. A data storage device 13, such as a Flash Memory Card(FMC), is nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication,identification device for a collectable object 1. A Flash Memory Card isillustrated only as an example for it's compact size, and preferrednon-volatile memory (NVM) capability, but many other examples of datastorage devices could also be used such as a USB flash drive, PC Card,Memory Card, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital Card, Memory Stick,xD-Picture Card and other compact sized, solid-state data storagedevices. For data security reasons, the data storage device 13 maycomprise a Read-Only-Memory (ROM) condition that is immutable to preventa user from altering or erasing the data of the data storage device 13.Immutable shall mean that the data is highly resistant to change oralteration. A core component 19 may secure the collectable coin 11, to apreformed cavity 17 that is cut through core component 19 for viewingcoin 11 on both sides, the obverse side (front) and reverse side (rear)of the coin. A cavity 15 may be provided to nest data storage device 13with core component 19. Core component 19, coin 11, data storage device13, and barcode label 9 are nondetachably secured with upper housing 3and lower housing 23 by a method that resists disassembly, such asultrasonic welding of the upper and lower housings 3 and 23 during anassembly process. Upper housing 3 and lower housing 23 show an examplefor an access opening 21 that provides for connection of a data storagereader device or electronic cable device to the port end of the datastorage device 13. Data storage device 13 is compatible with a standardcomputer system for display and inspection of at least one digital imageof coin 11 by a user to aid the user in the authentication of coin 11.The stored data may also include static (non-changing) predeterminedcharacteristics of collectable coin 11, such as the date of minting, theproduction mintage, and condition certification grade of coin 11. Thedigital images of the collectable object can provide authentication andidentification of the unique characteristics of the collectable object(e.g., strike, luster, color, defects, abrasions, centering, date,mintmark, die variations). Additional information such as historicalinformation that is associated with coin 11 may also be stored. Datastorage device 13 may also contain predetermined external databaselinks, such as the certification service's private network, which may bein the form of Internet Hyperlinks that also provide predeterminedcharacteristics of the collectable coin 11, and other dynamic (changing)data, such as the current certification population and current valuationof coin 11. The external database may include additional securityfeatures, such as a user login and password. Collectable objectdescriptors 5 may provide basic certification information of coin 11,for example, the denomination, the date of mintage, and thecertification grade of coin 11. The certification grade of coin 11 mayrefer to the condition grade of coin 11 as determined by a commercialgrading certification service. Barcode 7, when read by an appropriatebarcode reader may also provide predetermined characteristics of coin 11by means of an appropriate barcode reader device.

FIG. 2 shows a top plan view of a present invention device similar tothat shown in FIG. 1. A data storage device 31 (not fully seen in thisview), such as a Flash Memory Card (FMC) is nondetachably secured to theprotection, authentication, identification device 30, by means of aholder with an upper housing 41 and a lower housing 43 that are formedfor assembly with at least one collectable object, such as coin 37. Theholder is further formed by a method that resists disassembly, such asultrasonic welding of the upper and lower housing during an assemblyprocess. This is merely one example of a method that resists disassemblyand separation of coin 37, and can promote a nondetachably secured datastorage device such as 31 for the protection, authentication andidentification of a collectable object 37. Opening 33 provides accessfor a Memory Storage Reader device, such as a Flash Memory Reader deviceto electronically attach to Flash Memory Card (FMC) 31. Data storagedevice 31 is compatible with a standard computer system for display andinspection of at least one digital image of coin 37 by a user to aid theuser in the authentication of coin 37. A barcode label 35, when read byan appropriate barcode reader may also provide predeterminedcharacteristics of coin 37. And, collectable object descriptors 32 mayalso provide basic certification information of coin 37, for example,the denomination, the date of mintage, and the certification grade ofcoin 37. The certification grade of coin 37 refers to the conditiongrade of coin 37 as determined by a commercial grading certificationservice.

FIG. 3 shows a rear elevation view of the present invention device shownin FIG. 2. Upper housing 41 and lower housing 43 show an example for anaccess opening 33 that provides for a data storage reader device toelectronically attach to the port end of data storage device 31, such asa Flash Memory Card. The location of the access opening 33, thatprovides interface with data storage device 31, is shown in a rear viewonly as an example of placement location and could be located at otherlocations of the present invention, depending on the orientation of datastorage device 31 and data storage device port 45. Data storage device31 is nondetachably secured to the protection, authentication,identification device, by being assembled within the holder, which isformed to resist disassembly.

FIG. 4 shows a rear elevation view of a present invention device similarto that shown in FIG. 3. This rear view shows a protection,authentication, identification device 50, comprising a holder formed andshown assembled, consisting of upper housing 57 and lower housing 59.The holder has been formed for assembly by a method that resistsdisassembly, for example, by using barbed interlocking tabs (not shown)during an assembly process. Upper housing 57 and lower housing 59 showan example for an access opening 53 that provides for attachment of anelectronic Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface device (such as aUniversal Serial Bus (USB) cable) to the port end 55 of the data storagedevice 51 (such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) type flash drive). Datastorage device 51 would preferably have a compact form factor, and mayhave a non-volatile memory (NVM) condition. For data security reasons,the data storage device 51 may also comprise a Read-Only-Memory (ROM)condition that is immutable to prevent a user from altering or erasingthe data of data storage device 51. Immutable shall be defined herein asbeing resistant to change or alteration. Data storage device 51 isnondetachably secured to the protection, authentication, identificationdevice 50.

FIG. 5 shows a right front perspective, exploded view of anotherembodiment of the present invention device shown disassembled.Protection, authentication, identification device 60, has an upperhousing 61 and a lower housing 79 that are formed for assembly toprotect and secure a collectable object, such as coin 71 and datastorage device 67. Other collectable objects such as stamps, currency,baseball cards, etc., are additional examples of collectable objectsthat could be applicable to the present invention. The holder may bemade of a clear plastic, such as acrylic that provides protection andmay provide viewing of the collectable object, such as coin 71. Datastorage device 67 may be, for example, a Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) transponder label that has a barcode 65 and collectable objectdescriptors 63. For data security reasons, the data storage device 67may comprise a Read-Only-Memory (ROM) condition as to prevent a userfrom altering or erasing the data of data storage device 67. A corecomponent 77 may be used to secure collectable coin 71, within cavity73, which is cut through core component 77 for viewing coin 71 on bothsides, the obverse side (front) and reverse side (rear) of the coin. Therecessed area 75 of core component 77, is formed to receive and holddata storage device 67. Plastic core component 77, coin 71, and datastorage device 67 (with barcode 65 and collectable object descriptors63), are nondetachably secured to the present invention device 60. Upperhousing 61 and lower housing 79 are assembled to resist disassembly, byway of ultrasonic welding or other effective means. Data storage device67 is compatible with an appropriate RFID reader device and a standardcomputer system for display and inspection of at least one digital imageof coin 71 by a user to aid the user in the authentication of coin 71.The stored data may include static (non-changing) predeterminedcharacteristics of collectable coin 71, such as obverse (front) andreverse (rear) digital images, the date of minting, the productionmintage, and condition certification grade of coin 71. The digitalimages of the collectable object provide authentication andidentification of the unique characteristics of the collectable object(e.g., strike, luster, color, defects, abrasions, centering, date,mintmark, die variations). Additional information such as historicalinformation that is associated with coin 71 may also be stored. Datastorage device 67 may also contain predetermined external databaselinks, such as the private network of the certification service, whichmay be in the form of Internet Hyperlinks, that also providepredetermined characteristics of collectable coin 71, and other dynamic(changing) data, such as the current certification population and thecurrent valuation of coin 71. The external database may includeadditional security features, such as a user login and password.Collectable object descriptors 63 may provide basic certificationinformation of coin 71, for example, the denomination, the date ofmintage, and the certification grade of coin 71. The certification gradeof coin 71 refers to the condition grade of coin 71 as determined by agrading certification service. Barcode 65, when read by an appropriatebarcode reader may also provide predetermined characteristics of coin 71by means of an appropriate barcode reader device.

FIG. 6 shows a right front perspective view of the present inventiondevice shown and described in FIG. 5.

FIG. 7 shows a top plan view of another embodiment of a presentinvention device. A protection, authentication, identification device80, is shown comprising a holder 91 that is formed for assembly toprotect a collectable object, such as coin 87.

Other possible collectable objects may be stamps, currency, baseballcards, etc. A data storage device such as barcode label 85, is securedwithin holder 91 which is formed for assembly by a method or means thatresists disassembly. Collectable object descriptors 83 may provide basiccertification information of coin 87, for example, the denomination, thedate of mintage, and the certification grade of coin 87. Thecertification grade of coin 87 refers to the condition grade of coin 87as determined by a grading certification service.

Barcode 89, when read by an appropriate barcode reader providespredetermined characteristics of coin 87. Barcode 89 may also containpredetermined external database links, such as the certificationservice's private network, which may be in the form of InternetHyperlinks that also provide predetermined characteristics ofcollectable coin 87.

The external database may include additional security features, such asa user login and password. Collectable object descriptors 83 may providebasic certification information of coin 87, for example, thedenomination, the date of mintage, and the certification grade of coin87.

FIG. 8 shows a diagram of a present invention device that is similar tothat shown in FIGS. 1, 2, 3 and 4, and a typical corresponding interfacewith a standard computer system with Internet capability. A protection,authentication, identification device 100 for a collectable objectincludes a holder for at least one collectable object and a data storagedevice, such as a USB Flash Drive that comprises data of at least onestored digital image of the collectable object. Computer system 105reads the USB data storage device of the present invention 100 by meansof a USB cable 103. The data storage device may also include additionaldata including additional digital images, certification data, mintages,production data, and Internet Hyperlinks to Internet URL's 107, such asa Certification Service's Private Network that may include for example,digital images of the collectable object, current valuations of thecollectable object, etc.

FIG. 9 shows a diagram of a present invention device similar to thatshown in FIG. 5 and FIG. 6, and a typical corresponding interface with astandard computer system with Internet capability. A protection,authentication, identification device 200 is shown having a holder forat least one collectable object and a data storage device, such as aRFID transponder label that comprises data of at least one storeddigital image of the collectable object. Computer system 205 reads theRFID data storage device of the present invention 200 by means of theappropriate RFID reader device 203. The data storage device may alsoinclude additional data including additional digital images,certification data, mintages, production data, and Internet Hyperlinksto Internet URL's 207, such as a Certification Service's Private Networkthat may include for example, digital images of the collectable object,current valuations of the collectable object, etc.

FIG. 10 shows a diagram of a present invention device similar to thatshown in FIG. 7, and a typical corresponding interface with a standardcomputer system with Internet capability. A protection, authentication,identification device is shown comprising a holder for at least onecollectable object and a barcode label. Computer system 305 may read thebarcode label of the present invention 300 by means of the appropriatebarcode reader device 303. The barcode label may also include InternetHyperlinks to Internet URL's 307, such as a Certification Service'sPrivate Network that may include for example, digital images of thecollectable object, certification data, mintages and production data,current valuations of the collectable object, etc. A block diagram of anexemplary system for collectable authentication is presented in FIG. 1.A collectable object 105 is imaged by a hi-definition digital camera 108at an image resolution of at least 300 pixel dots per inch at 1:1 imagescale. In the case of a large collectable object, a portion of theobject may be imaged instead of the entire object. This image is thenprocessed by a computer device 150 and written to a non-volatile datastorage device 107. The computer device may be incorporated within thedigital camera 108, or the camera 108 and computer device 150 may beintegrated components of another electrical device, such as a cellulartelephone.

In an embodiment of the invention, a computer device is in communicationwith a server over a communications network, such as the Internet. Theserver, for example, may be provided by a certification service andoperate multiple databases, including a hi-definition image database. Acopy of the image of the collectable object is transferred from adigital camera, over the computer device, through a network and serverand onto the hi-definition image database. An access key may also begenerated and propagated back through the server, network and computerdevice and written onto the non-volatile data storage device, to allowaccess to the hi-definition image database using the non-volatile datastorage device.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the non-volatile datastorage device would then be rendered permanently immutable in thepartition in which the collectable image and access key are stored byphysically disabling its “write” circuit.

A non-volatile electronic data storage device is used in combinationwith at least one collectable object for authentication of collectableobject. The non-volatile electronic data storage device may, in separateembodiments, be either attached to or detached from the collectableobject and electronically configured to store at least one immutabledigital image of at least one unique appearance characteristic ofcollectable object. In a preferred embodiment, the digital image is atleast 300 pixel dots per inch. Non-volatile electronic data storagedevice may be provided with tamper resistant visual markings that areassociative with visual markings of collectable object so as to provideassociation of the data storage device with the collectable object.Collectable object may be a coin stored in a as clear protective holder,such as holder. Non-volatile electronic data storage device may includetamper resistant visual markings associative with visual markings ofcollectable object that are also associative with tamper resistantvisual markings of holder.

The non-volatile electronic data storage device, such as a USB flashdrive type data storage device, is compatible with a computer system fora user to view one or more digital images of the unique appearancecharacteristics of collectable object for authentication andidentification of at least one unique appearance characteristic ofcollectable object. Non-volatile electronic data storage device may alsostore historical information that may include digital picture images ofhistorical objects and persons related to collectable object.Non-volatile electronic data storage device may further include data ofat least one characteristic of collectable object, such as certificationdata, and can viewed by a user on standard computer system. In someembodiments, non-volatile electronic data storage device may furthercomprise at least one electronic link, such as a Hyperlink, that mayfetch a predetermined remote database that is related to coin andaccessed by a computer system. Predetermined remote database may be acertification service's private network and may include additionalcomparative images of collectable object and other information, such asvolatile (changing information) and may include, for example, currentcertified populations and current valuations of collectable object.Remote database may have an encrypted relationship with data storagedevice in whole, or in part. It may include link encryption, end-to-endencryption, or file-system-level encryption, whereas only certain filesare encrypted. Encryption is well known in the industry as a securityprotocol used to protect data in transit, by making it unreadable toanyone except those possessing special knowledge, usually referred to asa key. In this example of the present invention, data storage device maycomprise an encrypted key wherein the electronic link is an encryptedelectronic link that enables the user of data storage device to accessremote database, and/or specific encrypted digital images and otherinformation of database that is related to collectable object.

In an embodiment of the invention, in operation at least onehi-resolution image of at least one unique appearance characteristic ofa collectable object is recorded at an image resolution of at least 300pixel dots per inch at 1:1 image scale in a digital form. Thehi-resolution image is then stored on a USB flash drive, and the imageis rendered immutable. In some embodiments, a tamper resistantassociative visual marking is added to the USB flash drive. A secureelectronic hyperlink is provided on the USB flash drive that accesses apredetermined private database. This comprises a first level ofauthentication.

In a further embodiment, the hi-resolution image is also stored on thepredetermined private database, which comprises a second level ofauthentication.

To determine authenticity, in an embodiment of the invention, apreviously-stored hi-resolution image of at least one unique appearancecharacteristic of a collectable object at an image resolution of atleast 300 pixels dots per inch at 1:1 image scale. Next, thehi-resolution image is compared with the actual collectable object. Ifthe image and object match, then the object is determined authentic.Otherwise, the object is determined not authentic, and a secureelectronic hyperlink can be activated to compare the hi-resolution imageon the predetermined private database with the collectable object to doa second-level authentication. Similarly, the hi-resolution image on thepredetermined private database can be compared with the image on thenon-volatile storage device to determine if the non-volatile storagedevice has been tampered with.

Many collectable objects are too large to conveniently be imaged by asingle hi-resolution image. In one embodiment a weapon with an engravedserial number is provided. In this case a hi-resolution image of theengraved serial number does offer a unique appearance characteristic ofthe collectable object In such cases, the identifying aspect of thehi-resolution image is not the actual name or serial number imaged, butrather the highly detailed irregularities of the engraving.

A collectable object may have visual markings for use in combinationwith a non-volatile electronic data storage device having tamperresistant visual markings for use in the present invention. Otherexamples of small collectable objects may include, for example, stamps,currency, sports cards, etc., and would tend to benefit from aprotective holder for preservation of such smaller type collectables.“Collectable” simply refers to an object having a trait of humaninterest to be collected. Collectable objects are typically purchased oracquired by a fancier for enjoyment, examination, and/or investment.

A coin is an example of a collectable object for use in the presentinvention with a non-volatile electronic data storage device, forauthentication and identification of the unique appearancecharacteristics of the coin. Coin may be for instance, an ancient Romandouble Denarius struck in A.D. 248. Collectable objects, such as coins,possess “visual markings” typically formed from the striking of thecoin's design elements that are engraved into a die-hub, and formed by apress that strikes the design into coin planchets (blank metal discs),or in ancient times even by hand. Visual markings of a coin may include,for example, dates of minting, inscriptions, denomination, country oforigin, design elements (such as portraits of persons, animals,landmarks, events, and buildings), mintmarks, legends, etc. Forinstance, the coin may include visual markings of a lion design elementhaving a particular shape, scale, relief, and other identifiablecharacteristics. Furthermore, additional visual markings of coin 1 mayinclude, for instance, its unique shape, reeding characteristics (edgeof the coin), minute striking details, reflectance, luster patterns,abrasions, toning, coloration, and other visual markings that may befound on the opposite side (reverse) of coin 1 (not shown).

The storage device may include tamper resistant visual markings for usein combination with a collectable object having visual markings.Non-volatile electronic data storage device, may be a Flash Memory typedata storage device, and well known for its non-volatile condition, orlack of an on-board power source, such as a battery. Non-volatileelectronic data storage device 6 is used in combination with acollectable object, to provide an authentication record byidentification of one or more unique appearance characteristics of thecollectable object.

Non-volatile data storage device 6 is provided with tamper resistantvisual markings associative with visual markings of at least onecollectable object, such as a coin. “Tamper resistant” means resistantto tampering or alteration. “Associative” means associated with orrelated to an element or characteristic of another. For example, visualmarking (lion design element) are associative with visual marking (liondesign element) as shown on the coin. Although there are many differentmeans and methods to provide tamper resistant visual markings, apermanent silk-screened vinyl ink application of visual markings on thesurface of data storage device, would be considered tamper resistantvisual markings for use in the present invention.

Non-volatile electronic data storage device is electronically configuredto store at least one immutable digital image of at least one uniqueappearance characteristic of at least one collectable object.Non-volatile electronic data storage device may further comprise digitalpicture images of objects and/or persons related to a collectableobject, such as a coin. For example, non-volatile electronic datastorage device may include digital picture images related to a coin,such as a Double Denarius struck in A.D. 248 to commemorate the1000.sup.th anniversary of Rome's founding. Detailed digital pictureimages and historical facts may include, for example, digital pictureimages of the reining ruler, culture, dress, art, and other relevanthistorical information and images related to the coin and recorded andstored on the data storage device. Furthermore, non-volatile electronicdata storage device may comprise at least one immutable electronic linkthat fetches a predetermined remote database related to the collectableobject. The database may include related information, relatedcollectables for sale, valuation of the collectable, rarity populationsof the collectable, and any other information of relevance.

Other small collectable objects of value and/or interest, such asstamps, currency, or sports cards are additional examples of collectableobjects that would also be applicable to the present invention and wouldbenefit from a protective holder for preservation of the collectable.Collectable objects, such as coins, possess visual markings, forexample, and may have a date, a denomination, design elements, and othervisual appearance characteristics. A coin may have a visual marking “$”that may be related, for example, to the denomination of the coin. Uponassembly, the coin is protected by holder and comprised of upper housingand lower housing that may be made of a clear plastic material, such asan acrylic or polycarbonate material. Upper housing and lower housingmay have a means to snap together, may be glued together, or may beultrasonically bonded to further deter removal (detachment) of the coinfrom holder upon assembly with holder. Also, an optional core componentthat may be utilized to hold the coin in place by means of a frictionfit, and the coin is simply inserted into core component opening duringthe assembly process of the coin with the protective holder upper andlower housing parts. Core components may be comprised of a plasticmaterial, such as nylon, that retains the coin by means of a cut-throughopening and allows viewing of the front (obverse) and rear (reverse) ofthe coin. Alternately, and within the scope of the present invention,core component may be eliminated if holder includes a formed recess orwell in upper housing or lower housing that provides a substantialfriction fit to retain the coin, and thereby substantially reducingmovement of the coin inside the holder upon assembly. Still again, aprotective holder may simply be a clamshell type holder that is round inshape, and includes an upper and lower housing that are substantiallyformed just slightly larger than the width and height of the coin, andmay be pressed together to house the coin. Plastic holder that housesthe coin after assembly may include a label with visual markings anddescriptors of the coin. For instance, the coin may be a 1932 Indian $10gold coin, and visual markings may include, for example the date, thedenomination, and a condition grade. As such, upon assembly of holderwith collectable object, label provides tamper resistant visual markingsthat are associative with visual markings of the coin. Visual markingsmay simply be a corresponding barcode related to visual markings, andassociative with the tamper resistant visual markings of a non-volatileelectronic data storage device.

Within the scope of the present invention, a collectable object is notrequired to be placed in a protective holder. For smaller collectables,such as coins, stamps, sports cards, and the like, a holder can providean inexpensive means for protection and preservation of the collectable.However, as is the case with larger collectables, including collectableautomobiles, artwork, antiques, and the like, such larger collectablescannot be practically housed in a protective holder, however, thepresent invention is also applicable to larger collectible objects.Larger collectable objects, such as a limited production automobile,also possess visual markings and unique appearance characteristics. Forinstance, a collectable automobile may have visual markings thatinclude, for example, a manufacturer's identification tag, typically astamped metal tag often located on the firewall structure of anautomobile. The metal tag may having visual markings include, forexample, a unique serial number, date of manufacture, plant ofmanufacture, engine code, and other visual identification markingsinherent to a particular the model, make, and options of the particularautomobile. Not unlike a collectable coin that possesses visual markingsfor authentication and identification purposes, a 1970 Pontiac Trans AmFirebird automobile, for example, also possesses visual markings thatmay be utilized for authentication and identification of the uniqueappearance characteristics of a particular automobile. For example,unique appearance characteristics for a 1970 Pontiac Trans Am Firebird,may include, for example, an identification tag (ID) that includes aunique serial number, a stamped or etched unique engine code/serialnumber (often located on the engine block), and a stamped or etchedunique transmission code/serial number (located on the transmissionhousing). Other visual markings, may include, for example, the odometerdevice displaying the mileage reading of the automobile, exterior paintcharacteristics, paint blemishes, chips, abrasions, scratches, interiorcomponent visual markings, and other unique appearance characteristicsinherent to that particular collectable automobile or collectable objectof interest.

Upon assembly, non-volatile electronic data storage device may beprovided with tamper resistant visual markings that are associative withthe visual markings of at least one collectable, and is detached fromthe collectable. Data storage device holder includes tamper resistantvisual markings.

Data storage device holder may be comprised of data storage device, alabel that provides a method for displaying visual markings in a tamperresistant method, and a clear protective housing that is assembledtogether such as upper housing and lower housing. Tamper resistantvisual markings are associative with the visual markings of thecorresponding detached collectable object, a holder that housescollectable object so as to provide association of the data storagedevice with the collectable object. Visual marking, for example, mayinclude a corresponding barcode

Tamper resistant visual markings may be provided for by means of atamper resistant holder that houses data storage device, at least inpart, and including a label with tamper resistant visual markings thatare associative with a collectable object. The holder may be comprisedof an upper housing, and a lower housing that are formed to enclose andprotect label, visual markings, barcode and data storage device. Theholder may be made of a clear plastic, such as acrylic, and may bedesigned to be tamper resistant upon assembly that would make itdifficult for a user to disassemble the holder once it has beenassembled. This may be accomplished, for example, by a method thatsecurely bonds upper housing and lower housing together, such asultrasonic welding of the plastic mating surfaces during an assemblyprocess. In this example, Label provides a tamper resistant means fordisplaying associative visual markings of collectable object, and mayinclude collectable object descriptors, such as the date, thedenomination, and a certification grade of the associative collectableobject. Within the scope of the present, many other methods may beutilized to promote tamper resistance.

Data storage device may be a USB Flash Drive, because of it's compactsize, and non-volatile memory (NVM) capability. However, many otherexamples of data storage devices could also be used such as a FlashMemory Card, PC Card, Memory Card, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital Card,Memory Stick, xD-Picture Card and other compact sized, solid-state datastorage devices. “Non-volatile” is well known in the industry as nothaving a power source integrated (on-board) with the data storage deviceitself, such as a battery. As the data storage device may be stored formany years, it is an objective of the present that it may be storedwithout concern of replacing a battery, or the potential adverse effectsthat may occur, over time, by any adverse chemical reactions that mayoccur with any attached battery or power source.

Data storage device is configured to store at least one immutabledigital image of at least one unique appearance characteristic of acollectable object, such as a coin. “Immutable” shall mean data that ishighly resistant to change or alteration. As such data storage device isconfigured to have an immutable condition, at least in part, to deter auser from altering or erasing some or all images (and data) stored ondata storage device. As such, data storage device, may be configuredwith a Read-Only-Memory (ROM), at least in part (such as an integratedcircuit partition of the data storage device), or may be configured as aWrite-Once-Read-Many (WORM) device that is immutable as a whole.

Unique appearance characteristics are commonly used by collectors andcertification services for authentication and identification of acollectable object, such as coin. Data storage device is configured torecord and store at least one immutable digital image of at least oneunique appearance characteristic of a collectable object and can beutilized for authentication and identification of the appearancecharacteristics of the collectable object.

Data storage device is compatible with a standard computer system anddoes not require Internet-online operability for a user to view,evaluate, and compare digital images of the unique appearancecharacteristics of the associative (detached) collectable object. Datastorage device may comprise one or more detailed digital images of theappearance of the front (obverse), the back (reverse), and possibly theedge (reeding) of the coin. Certain images may be magnified to identifyand focus on certain unique appearance characteristics of thecollectable object, including very small details such as die-varieties(unique engraved dies used for minting the obverse and reverse of acoin), striking characteristics of the coin (related to the conditionand striking pressure of the die), minute luster patterns created duringthe minting process, edge “reeding” characteristics (edge of a coinformed by a collar), minute abrasions or wear, and other minuteidentification appearance characteristics. Often times, collectableobjects have more than one characteristic associated with thecollectable object, and data storage device may include data of morethan one characteristic of the collectable object. As such, data storagedevice may include additional data, such as the date of minting, theproduction mintage, and a condition grade by a certification service ofthe collectable object. Additional information such as historicalinformation including digital picture images of historical objectsand/or persons that are associated with the collectable object may alsobe stored in data storage device. In some embodiments of the presentinvention, data storage device may also contain one or morepredetermined external database electronic links, such as thecertification service's private network, and may be in the form ofInternet Hyperlinks that can fetch (access) additional predeterminedcharacteristics of the collectable coin, images, and other related data.Such “volatile” (changeable) data may include, for example, the currentcertification population and current valuation of the collectableobject. A label may further include a barcode, and when read by anappropriate barcode reader, may also provide predeterminedcharacteristics of the associated collectable object by means of anappropriate barcode reader device.

The non-volatile electronic data storage device is compatible with astandard computer system for viewing at least one digital image of atleast one unique appearance characteristic of a collectable, such as thecollectable coin.

Although the invention herein has been described with reference toparticular embodiments, it is to be understood that these embodimentsare merely illustrative of the principles and applications of thepresent invention. It is therefore to be understood that numerousmodifications may be made to the illustrative embodiments and that otherarrangements may be devised without departing from the spirit and scopeof the present invention as defined by the appended claims.

1. A protection, authentication, identification device for a coin, saiddevice comprising: a holder formed for assembly with said coin toprovide protection and preservation of said coin, said holder housingfurther being formed so as to be nondetachably secured to said coin toresist disassembly and separation with said coin; and an electronic datastorage device containing at least one predetermined external databaselink to an external database comprising at least one digital image of atleast one unique appearance characteristic of said coin, selected fromthe group including strike, luster, defects, and abrasions forauthentication and identification of said digital image with said coin,and said electronic data storage device being nondetachably secured tosaid holder housing and configured to store at least one digital imageof said coin, said at least one digital image including sufficientdetail to record at least one unique characteristic of the appearance ofsaid coin; wherein said electronic data storage device is a solid-stateflash memory storage device configured and having sufficient storagecapacity to record unique characteristics of the appearance of saidcoin, and at least one digital image is readable and displayable by astandard computer system connectable to said electronic storage system.2. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1,wherein said electronic data storage device containing at least onepredetermined external database link to an external database comprisingat least one digital image of at least one unique appearancecharacteristic comprises at least one hi-resolution digital image ofsaid at least one unique appearance characteristic of said coin at animage resolution of at least 300 pixel dots per inch at 1:1 image scale.3. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1,wherein said at least one digital image includes at least one uniquecharacteristic of said coin selected from the group including color,centering, date, mintmarks, and die variations.
 4. The protection,authentication, identification device of claim 1, wherein saidpredetermined external database may also provide other predeterminedcharacteristics of said collectable object.
 5. The protection,authentication, identification device of claim 1, wherein saidpredetermined external database comprises other predeterminedcharacteristics of said coin including at least its date, condition,mintage, population and valuation.
 6. The protection, authentication,identification device of claim 1, wherein the electronic data storagedevice is readable by a standard computer system via a wireless device.7. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 6,wherein the wireless device comprises a radio device.
 8. The protection,authentication, identification device of claim 1, wherein the electronicdata storage device is readable by a standard computer system via a datastorage reader device.
 9. The protection, authentication, identificationdevice of claim 3, wherein said predetermined external database may alsoprovide other predetermined characteristics of said collectable object.10. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim 1,wherein the electronic data storage device is readable by a standardcomputer system via a wireless device.
 11. The protection,authentication, identification device of claim 1, wherein the electronicdata storage device is readable by a standard computer system via a datastorage reader device.
 12. The protection, authentication,identification device of claim 1, wherein said further comprises atleast one object descriptor associated with said holder housing toprovide authenticity protection of said holder with said associatedcoin.
 13. The protection, authentication, identification device of claim1, wherein said further comprises at least one object descriptorassociated with said holder housing to provide authenticity protectionof said holder with said associated coin.
 14. A protection,authentication, identification device for a coin, said devicecomprising: a holder formed for assembly with said coin to provideprotection and preservation of said coin, said holder housing furtherbeing formed so as to be nondetachably secured to said coin to resistdisassembly and separation with said coin; and an electronic datastorage device containing at least one predetermined external databaselink to an external database comprising at least one digital image of atleast one unique appearance characteristic of said coin, selected fromthe group including strike, luster, defects, and abrasions forauthentication identification of said digital image with said coin, andwherein said external database comprises at least one digital image ofat least one unique appearance characteristic comprises at least onehi-resolution digital image of said at least one unique appearancecharacteristic of said coin at an image resolution of at least 300 pixeldots per inch at 1:1 image scale.